Audi reveals limited edition R8 LMX with laser headlights

Audi will soon launch a new limited edition model of the R8 which will not only be the most powerful iteration of the mid-engined supercar yet, but will also be the first production car to feature laser headlights as standard. 

Back in 2008, the R8 famously became the first production vehicle to feature all-LED headlights and this was recently followed by the unique Matrix LED headlights, which debuted in the updated A8 launched last year. Now, Audi has gone a step further with the R8 LMX. 

Inside the headlight units of the new R8 LMX are new laser high beams with laser module, each comprising of high-power laser diodes. Audi claims this arrangement offers twice the illumination range of all-LED headlights. A camera-based sensor system detects other road users and actively adjusts the light pattern to avoid glare.

Mechanically, the R8 LMX is based on the V10 plus version with its mid-mounted V10 engine. This engine puts out 570bhp of power and 540Nm of torque, allowing the car to hit 100kmph from standstill in just 3.4 seconds before topping out at nearly 320kmph. 

The new R8 LMX will make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK. The car will be available only as a coupe with a production run limited to 99 vehicles. Audi says the R8 LMX can be differentiated from the rest of the range with its fixed rear spoiler, additional usage of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer for the front lip spoiler, wing mirrors and the engine compartment. Further differentiating the flagship model are the high gloss black tailpipes and the single frame grille finished in titanium grey.